Don Carlo, an opera in four acts composed by Giuseppe Verdi , is set to grace the stage of the Teatro alla Scala in Milan as part of their new production for the 2023/24 season. Under the baton of the esteemed conductor Riccardo Chailly, this rendition of Don Carlo promises to captivate audiences with its powerful music and compelling storytelling.
Don Carlo is set in the 16th century and tells a complex story of political intrigue, love, and betrayal. The opera revolves around the historical figure of Don Carlo, the crown prince of Spain, and his relationships with his father King Philip II, his stepmother Queen Elisabeth of Valois, and his close friend Rodrigo, Marquis of Posa.
Story of Don Carlos by Giuseppe Verdi
Don Carlo is a great opera composed by Giuseppe Verdi.
The French original of the opera Don Carlo from 1867 belongs to the grand opéra genre and has five acts. The first performance of Verdi’s revised version in 4 acts took place in 1884 at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan. Of several versions of the opera, this version is the most performed.
The libretto was written by Joseph Méry and Camille du Locle, based on the dramatic play Don Carlos, Infante of Spain by Friedrich Schiller.
The opera revolves around the complex web of relationships and political intrigue during the 16th century. Teatro alla Scala, renowned for its commitment to artistic excellence, sets the stage for this grand opera. As the curtains rise on Don Carlo, audiences can anticipate an immersive journey into the captivating world of Verdi’s masterpiece, where the conflicts of love and duty, politics and religion intertwine in a gripping narrative.
For those fortunate enough to attend, this new production of Don Carlo at La Scala is a rare opportunity to witness the convergence of exceptional musical talent, expert direction, and the legendary ambiance of one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. Prepare to be transported to the royal courts of Spain, where passion and intrigue unfold against a backdrop of sumptuous melodies and dramatic grandeur.
Cast and Creative Team of the Opera Don Carlos
The main characters include Philip II, King of Spain, portrayed by the renowned bass René Pape, and Don Carlo, the Infante of Spain, brought to life by the talented tenor Francesco Meli. The role of Rodrigo, the Marquis of Posa, will be masterfully performed by baritone Luca Salsi.
Two acclaimed sopranos will take turns portraying Elizabeth of Valois, the queen of Spain: Anna Netrebko will grace the stage on December 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, and 22, while Maria José Siri will enchant the audience on December 30 and January 2.
Ain Anger (The Grand Inquisitor), indisposed during the rehearsals, has to withdraw from the production of Don Carlo due to his prolonged convalescence. Jongmin Park, already involved in the role of the Friar and who had played the role of the Grand Inquisitor in place of his indisposed colleague during the rehearsals, for having agreed to play both the role of the Friar and of the Grand Inquisitor.
This new production of Don Carlo at La Scala promises to be a thrilling experience, blending Verdi’s rich and emotive score with a compelling visual interpretation. With Riccardo Chailly’s masterful guidance and a stellar cast of renowned performers, the opera is poised to showcase the depth of Verdi’s musical genius and the timeless themes of love, power, and sacrifice.
Opera in 4 acts
Libretto by François-Joseph Méry and Camille Du Locle
Teatro alla Scala New Production
Teatro alla Scala Orchestra and Chorus
Conductor • Riccardo Chailly
Staging • Lluis Pasqual
Sets • Daniel Bianco
Costumes • Franca Squarciapino
Lights • Pascal Merat
Video • Franc Aleu
Choreographic movements • Nuria Castejón
CAST
Philip II, King of Spain • Michele Pertusi
Don Carlos, Infante of Spain • Francesco Meli
Rodrigo, Marquis of Posa • Luca Salsi
The Grand Inquisitor • Jongmin Park
A monk • Jongmin Park
Elisabetta di Valois • Anna Netrebko (7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22 Dec.) and Maria José Siri (30 Dec, 2 Jan)
The Princess of Eboli • Elīna Garanča (7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22 Dec.) and Ekaterina Semenchuk (30 Dec, 2 Jan)
Thibault, Elizabeth’s Page • Elisa Verzier
The Count of Lerma / A Royal Herald • Jinxu Xiahou
A voice from Heaven • Rosalia Cid
Booking Travel Package
Music trip to Milan with tickets for the performance “Don Carlo” for 3 days with 2 nights in a hotel in Milan. You can select between Essential and Superior Package.
Each travel package is put together individually according to your wishes. The booking process for Accommodation and tickets:
- Select a Date
- Press “Add to cart” and “Send Request”
- When we receive your booking request, you will get an individual offer with some hotels to choose from. Only after your decision, we send you a travel contract to confirm the booking.
- Description of the Essential and Superior Package
Performance Dates opera Don Carlos
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Operas, Ballets, Concerts of the La Scala Season
In Milan at Teatro alla Scala